Auto-nomy

I'm being obliged to pay for insurance on my father-in-law's car (he's almost 80 and doesn't drive it anymore). I don't need a car, so I feel that I would be just paying a load of money for nothing. Also, I haven't been given the chance to weigh up the pros and cons - the assumption was just that I would pay the insurance for the car. 

It frustrates me so much - the lack of choice allowed, being hurried into sorting it out, and the meltdown I've just had.

So, I'm just venting, but feel free to make me feel better with sympathy and stories.

  • I'm sorry to hear that. Since my diagnosis, no one in my family has asked me how I'm coping with everything. I'm just expected to get on with it...and then this car thing comes along, and I'm like: 'No! My cup is full to the brim already!' Except that I don't say, 'No!' because I hate confrontation.

  • I can understand that. When my parents became ill, my brother and my extended family  just assumed I would be their long term carer. No discussion or support, just assumption, and complete removal of my autonomy.

  • I might use it *very* rarely, but I would much rather use public transport (even though it's usually terrible). It's not just about the cost - it's the knowledge that I'm responsible for this big piece of metal that I didn't ask for. I'm autistic - I don't like change! I'm autistic - I do like autonomy and a simple life! I'm so annoyed that the assumption was that I would just take on this new responsibility and cost at the drop of the proverbial hat. Sometimes, I feel that no one knows me.

  • If the car isn’t used any more why is it being kept?